Khaden

Early 20th Century Tibetan Seat Rug with Swastika Motifs
This finely woven Tibetan rug exemplifies the aesthetic and symbolic richness of traditional Himalayan textile arts. Crafted in wool, the rug features a serene gradient background, shifting from soft baby blues to deeper indigo tones. These colour variations, known as abrashes—whether intentional or due to natural dye differences—add to its authentic character and are a hallmark of early Tibetan dyeing techniques.
The central field is composed of alternating rows of large flower diamonds in walnut brown and small, cross-shaped geometric motifs rendered in the same earthy palette. These elements may function as protective symbols. Interspersed throughout the design are eight auspicious swastikas (yungdrung in Tibetan), meticulously woven in shades of pink, and white. This ancient symbol of eternity and auspiciousness is deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism and the Bon tradition, representing harmony, balance, and the cyclical nature of time.
The soft yet durable wool pile and balanced composition reflect the skill of experienced local weavers, possibly from workshops in the Lhasa region or the Khampa areas of eastern Tibet.
More than a functional textile, this piece is a profound expression of Tibetan spirituality and material culture. The presence of symbolic motifs such as the yungdrung situates the rug within a broader religious and philosophical context, where textiles serve both ritual and everyday purposes.

Date: Circa 1900–1930
Warp: wool
Weft: hand spun wool 
Colours: soft-medium-darker tones of blue/pink/off-white/cream-beige/soft-medium-walnut-brown 
Dimensions: 82cm × 180cm (32.3in × 70.9in)
Condition: Overall good condition for its age, with slight wear consistent with time and use